Raheem Sterling signed for Liverpool in 2010 at the age of 15 (Reuters)

Liverpool and England winger Raheem Sterling has been charged with assaulting a 27-year-old woman.

The 18-year-old was not at the hearing at Liverpool Youth Court but his solicitor was there on his behalf to say Sterling will be denying the allegations.

The incident involves a 27-year-old woman who suffered "slight" facial injuries during an alleged incident in Toxteth, Liverpool, on 2 November, when the winger was 17.

Sterling's solicitor Mick Hogan said: "I do have instructions to the effect that Mr Sterling will be pleading not guilty to this charge. He is aware of today's hearing and the club are very supportive."

The Jamaica-born footballer, who lives in Woolton, Liverpool, is due to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on 22 February.

Sterling has made 25 appearances for Liverpool, scoring two goals. The club signed him for Queens Park Rangers for £600,000 in 2010, when he was just 15.

Sterling made his international debut against Sweden in November, becoming the fifth-youngest player to be capped by England at senior level.